Members of Dokken, Poison, Great White, Lita Ford, Cher, and King Kobra

Opened for:

Blue Oyster Cult; Pat Benatar; Bret Michaels

Rich CarlsonDrums

Rich Carlson is an accomplished drummer who has been playing music since the age of 14. His drum technique is influenced by John Bonham, Tommy Aldridge, and Ian Pace. At the young age of 15, Rich began playing in bands in the San Francisco Bay area. Rich played in an array of cover bands, playing five nights a week to improve his skills. Within 5 years, he was a proficient drummer performing regularly throughout the Bay area club scene. His bands have included The Toys, Hari Kari, G Force, Autobahn, Horse, and Badd Boyz - a band consisting of great talents such as Paul Shortino ("Rough Cut" and Quiet Riot"), Mitch Perry (Cher and MSG), and Sean McNabb (Great White).

Some highlights from Rich’s musical career include auditioning for Ozzy Osbourne and earning a second call back, as well as opening up for many big-name acts such as Pat Benatar, Blue Oyster Cult, Y&T, and Bret Michaels of Poison.

Rich currently resides in Denver, Colorado, and aside from playing live, he has played on numerous CDs and does studio work as well.

Rich is a proud endorser for Pearl Drums and has been teaching drum lessons since 1993. His students are very typically able to play a song within two to four months of beginning lessons. Rich’s zealous approach to teaching is unintimidating, and the objective is for each student to have a fun while learning and improving their skills. He enjoys the one-on-one interaction with students of all ages and skill levels.